Community News

 As the colorful palette of fall emerges across New York State, SLELO PRISM is providing refreshed tips and resources to help community members tackle invasive species during this critical season.

Fall offers a prime opportunity to spot and control invasive species, as many of these unwanted plants persist while native species begin to go dormant.

"Invasive species management is crucial year-round, but fall is especially important," says Rob Williams, Program Director of SLELO PRISM. "This is the time when we can spot these species more easily and take preventive measures that will make a significant impact come spring." 

Top Fall Invasive Species Management Tips from SLELO PRISM

• Attention Anglers: As you head to your favorite salmon fishing spots, be on the lookout for Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) adults and eggs that could be on your vehicle and equipment. If you find SLF adults or egg masses report the observation to NYiMapInvasives.org or email a photo and the location of the found SLF to spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov, Squish SLF adults, or scrape eggs into a baggie. 
• Knotweed Awareness: While fishing, avoid walking through invasive knotweed, which can easily spread from broken plant fragments. This pernicious weed continues to threaten local ecosystems, and extra caution can prevent further damage.
• Attention Leaf Peepers: Beech Leaf Disease, an invasive pathogen affecting beech trees, is another threat to watch out for. When exploring trails this fall, inspect the underside of beech tree leaves for signs of striping between leaf veins and look for curled or leathery leaves. Report suspicious sightings to NYiMapInvasives.

Tools for Action: SLELO PRISM's Protector Toolbox

In addition to these tips, SLELO PRISM offers a variety of resources to assist in managing invasive species this fall:

• SLELO PRISM Invasive Species Handbook: An essential guide for identifying and managing invasive species in the region.
• Don’t Move Firewood: A comprehensive resource on preventing the spread of tree-killing bugs and finding local sources for permitted firewood.
• Protect Your Forests Poster: Downloadable quick tips on how to protect local forests from invasive threats.
• SLF Prevention Checklist: Learn where to look and what to do to prevent the spread of SLF with this helpful checklist.

SLELO PRISM encourages everyone to join the Pledge to Protect initiative, which empowers individuals with simple actions to make a significant difference in protecting our natural habitats. By joining, community members gain access to exclusive resources and become part of a growing network dedicated to preserving New York’s lands and waters year-round.

For more information about SLELO PRISM and the Pledge to Protect program, please visit iPledgeToProtect.org.